More than 150 years ago, a young Quaker named Abraham wrote this letter to his wife, Jane. Only two details of the couple's life are known today: The letter was written while Abraham was on a business trip, and he and his wife had two sons -- one born in 1852, the other in 1864. Cherished by descendants, the letter was sent to Good Housekeeping by a family member who felt it was a touching example of the love that binds man to woman. I'd like to share it this Valentine season.

August 1, 1853My Dear Jane,I send this little watch for thy birthday gift. I suppose thee is twenty-four years old, the seventh day of this month. Thee has been my loving wife nearly three years, we have a little darling boy to crown our love, and we do love each other very much - more so since he has been with us. I think sometimes no one in the wide world loves his wife better than I do, and that no one has a sweeter wife to love. Thee knows, though I am cross sometimes, I love thee very much. Now I want to love thee through coming years, more if possible than I ever have done, and avoid all cross words and feelings. I think with thy assistance I can improve, and perhaps, My Darling, with our Heavenly Father's help we may do more than we think possible now.

Time goes very fast. It seems but yesterday I saw thy white dress pass the Meeting House, and thought to myself what a sweet trim girl thee was. Then as we often met and I knew thee better, I loved thee more, and before many years, we stood in the same meeting as husband and wife, to love faithfully and affectionately until we should be separated for our long homes. We have loved so and been very happy and we have the power to be more happy still. If we have troubles they will strnegthen our love - for "the Lord loveth whom he chasteneth," and if we are very weary, "He giveth his beloved sleep." I hope and pray, My Darling, that we may all walk through Life in sweet unity to a better Home. I cannot write the feelings that draw me towards thee tonight, but thee knows, Love, better than I could tell thee what place thee holds in my heart. Good-bye. All wishes for thyself and our darling boy. As ever thine,Abraham

Why a blog?

Family history just fascinates me. And not just my own. There are many facts and people that have been lost to time. I really enjoy puzzles and sometimes I come across some really interesting mysteries in my genealogy travels. I'll post some of my musings here.